Board Approves MOU for Glen Ellyn Space

News at College of DuPage




By Brian KleemannThe College of DuPage Board of Trustees took its first step toward the possible establishment
of an innovation center in the Glen Ellyn Civic Center.During its July 20 meeting, the Board approved a memorandum of understanding to reimburse
the Village of Glen Ellyn for preliminary architectural costs up to $24,000 in determining
whether 8,500 square feet of space in the Glen Ellyn Civic Center can be renovated.
The MOU will yield a preliminary design and cost estimate that the Board of Trustees
will use to determine whether the College should pursue the space for an innovation
center.If created, the new initiative – to be called Innovation DuPage – would serve as both
a business incubator and accelerator that would connect small businesses with the
necessary resources to thrive and stimulate job growth.“Since its establishment 50 years ago, College of DuPage has made a positive impact
on workforce and economic development,” said College of DuPage President Dr. Ann Rondeau.
“We welcome the opportunity to work with Choose DuPage and the Village of Glen Ellyn
to create an innovation center with strong public and private partners that will expand
our local business base. The center would take what we already do well and offer it
through an exciting concept.”In June, the Village of Glen Ellyn approved the authorization of the MOU and a contract
with the architectural and engineering firm Dewberry for design services for the space.Board of Trustees Chairman Deanne Mazzochi said College of DuPage is in a unique position
to leverage its knowledge and resources to further promote local economic growth.“We are happy to explore the possibility of using this central location in downtown
Glen Ellyn for a center that could have a tremendous positive impact on DuPage County,”
Mazzochi said.Joe Cassidy, Dean of Continuing Education at College of DuPage, said the College has
explored the possibility ...

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